What does it actually take for a song to get played on Christian radio? And is radio still worth pursuing as an independent artist in 2026?
In this episode of the Christian Artist Mentorship Podcast, Wisdom Moon sits down with Steve Shore, Music Platform Program Director for K-LOVE and Air1, to pull back the curtain on how Christian radio works and what music programmers are really looking for.
Steve shares his journey from being the kid who brought his CD collection to youth group to spending more than two decades in Christian radio. He explains how radio programmers evaluate new music, the role of streaming data and listener research, why the first 30 seconds of a song matter, and how songwriting, production, lyrics, and social media can all influence whether a song connects.
Most importantly, Steve offers honest advice for independent artists. Including when it makes sense to invest in radio promotion, why spending thousands of dollars on radio may not be the best move for every indie artist, how to build relationships with industry professionals without burning bridges, and why artists shouldn't compromise their sound just to chase radio.
If you're an independent Christian artist wondering whether radio is right for you, or simply trying to understand how the Christian music industry works, this conversation is full of practical insight and encouragement.
Topics discussed:
How Christian radio decides which songs get played
What music programmers listen for in a new song
The importance of the first 30 seconds
Lyrics vs. melody vs. production
Streaming data and listener research
When indie artists should and shouldn't invest in radio
Building genuine relationships with radio and industry professionals
Common mistakes that can burn industry relationships
Social media and discoverability in 2026
AI music and the future of human-made music
The changing sound of Christian radio
Staying grounded and maintaining longevity as an artist
Why some of the most creative Christian music is coming from the indie space
Connect with Steve Shore
Instagram: @steveoshore
Connect with Wisdom Moon:
Instagram: @wisdommoon
Christian Artist Mentorship: christianartistmentorship.com
Pure Mosaic Services: puremosaicservices.com
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a songwriter, producer, worship leader, or Christian artist who would benefit from the conversation.
